Dubai Sunset Camel Trekking With BBQ Dinner at VIP Camp

Dubai Sunset Camel Trekking With BBQ Dinner at VIP Camp: A Genuine Desert Experience

If you’re visiting Dubai and craving something more than just towering skyscrapers and shopping malls, this Sunset Camel Trekking tour offers a glimpse into the traditional Arabian lifestyle, set against the stunning backdrop of the desert. We’ve come across several glowing reviews that highlight how this tour combines authentic cultural moments with fun activities and lively entertainment.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its effort to bring old Arabia to life through engaging activities, delicious food, and knowledgeable guides. The camel ride is a star feature, giving you a taste of genuine desert travel, while the BBQ dinner and cultural shows add layers of entertainment.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is scheduled for around 6 hours, so it’s a good choice if you’re ready for a full evening adventure. It’s best suited for first-time visitors eager to explore Dubai’s desert in a relaxed, fun, and authentic way. If you’re after an adrenaline-filled day with activities like sandboarding, that’s available at an extra cost, but this experience focuses more on the traditional and cultural side of desert life.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with traditional activities like henna, shisha, and dressing up in local attire
• Expert guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and make the experience memorable
• Stunning desert sunset views and a well-organized camel trek for first-timers
• Vibrant entertainment including belly dance, Tanoura dance, falconry, and fire shows
• Value for money with included transfers, unlimited drinks, and a hearty BBQ dinner
• Convenient pickup from your hotel, with some locations not included due to traffic

What to Expect on Your Dubai Sunset Camel Trekking Tour

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, generally within 45 minutes of your selected time, via a comfortable, air-conditioned 4WD vehicle. Some locations, such as Rove Dubai Marina and Wyndham Dubai Marina, are excluded from pickup due to traffic, but you can meet at a nearby point—specifically Stella Di Mare.

The driver is typically an English-speaking licensed guide, making communication smooth and friendly, which is always appreciated after a long flight or busy day.

The Camel Ride: A Classic Desert Snapshot

Once you arrive in the desert, the highlight begins: a 40-45 minute camel trek. We loved the way the guides narrated the experience, emphasizing the cultural significance of camels in Arabian life. Reviewers mention that the ride is peaceful, offering a chance to absorb the stunning sunset views over the dunes.

The camel trekking itself feels authentic, with some reviewers noting friendly guides and well-maintained camels. It’s a gentle ride, suitable even for those who aren’t seasoned riders, and the opportunity to take photos at sunset makes it a truly picturesque moment.

The Bedouin Camp: A Cultural Retreat

After the trek, you’ll arrive at the Al Khayma Desert Camp, a recreated Bedouin-style setting. Here, the atmosphere switches from adventure to culture. You’ll be welcomed with tea or coffee and Arabian dates, setting a hospitable tone.

This part of the tour is appreciated for its authentic touches—reviewers often mention how polite and friendly the personnel are, adding to the welcoming vibe. Guests can try shisha (hookah) with various flavors, and women can enjoy Henna tattoos—a favorite detail for many who appreciate the personal touch.

Traditional Entertainment and Local Attire

Camp activities are lively. You can dress in traditional Arabic attire, which many find fun and photogenic. The camp also features performances like belly dance, Tanoura dance, and a fire show, providing a vibrant taste of Arab entertainment.

Reviewers highlight that the entertainment is professional and engaging, especially mentioning the Falconry display and Arabian Horse Show. These add a real cultural flavor, making the experience more than just a dinner.

A Hearty BBQ Dinner

Food-wise, the BBQ buffet is a major highlight. The dinner includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, ensuring everyone finds something tasty. The meat is tender, and the sides are flavorful, according to guests. The open buffet setup allows for relaxed grazing while enjoying the lively performances.

The inclusion of sweets, coffee, and dates complements the meal, offering a full Arabian hospitality experience.

Extra Activities and Optional Add-ons

For those seeking a thrill, sandboarding is available at an additional fee, but the main focus remains on the cultural and scenic aspects.

Some reviewers suggest that more activities or overnight options could enhance the experience, although the current setup offers a comprehensive taste of desert life in a single evening.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

At $99 per person, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment. The price covers hotel transfers, camel ride, dinner, and all the cultural shows, which collectively offer excellent value. Compared to other desert safaris that focus solely on adrenaline, this experience emphasizes authenticity and cultural exposure, making it a great choice for first-timers or families.

Some guests comment on the well-organized itinerary and the professionalism of guides like Saif, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The group size typically caps at 200, ensuring the tour remains lively but not overcrowded.

Why We Think It’s Worth It

This experience is perfect if you want to escape the city’s hustle and get a real feel for Arabian traditions. The camel trek and sunset views are genuinely stunning, and the camp’s entertainment is vibrant and culturally rich. You’ll also appreciate the chance to dress up in local attire and take memorable photos.

The authentic atmosphere combined with excellent logistics makes this a hassle-free way to enjoy Dubai’s desert without the need for a self-drive or multiple bookings. It’s a solid pick for travelers wanting a balanced, family-friendly, and immersive desert adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits first-time visitors who want a straightforward introduction to Dubai’s desert culture. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy cultural shows, traditional food, and light adventure activities like camel riding.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a relaxed, enjoyable evening out, this tour offers a blend of fun and cultural authenticity that caters to a wide audience.

However, if you’re looking for high-adrenaline activities or an overnight camping experience, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included from most Dubai hotels, scheduled within 45 minutes of your selected time. Some locations, like Rove Dubai Marina, are excluded due to traffic, but meeting points are available nearby.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel trek lasts approximately 40-45 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the scenic desert and snap photos during the sunset.

What entertainment is included at the camp?
You’ll see traditional belly dance, Tanoura dance, fire shows, Falconry, and Arabian Horse shows, all performed by professionals.

Can I try shisha or get a Henna tattoo?
Yes, guests can smoke shisha (with various flavors) and get Henna tattoos—especially popular among women. Note that if your skin is sensitive, it’s advised to avoid Henna.

Is vegetarian food available?
Absolutely, the BBQ buffet has vegetarian options alongside meat dishes, ensuring all guests are satisfied.

Are additional activities available?
Sandboarding is offered but at an extra fee. Other activities like quad biking are not included and should be booked separately if desired.

How much does the tour cost?
The experience is priced at $99 per person, offering good value considering the included transfers, activities, and entertainment.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the desert and possibly some layers for the evening chill. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for daytime, and a light jacket if staying into the evening.

Is alcohol served?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially since it’s geared towards first-time visitors and includes gentle activities like camel riding and cultural performances.

Final thoughts: If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and fun desert evening that combines scenic views, cultural activities, and a hearty meal, this Dubai Sunset Camel Trekking tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a genuine taste of Arab traditions while maintaining great value and comfort. Perfect for first-timers and those eager to capture the magic of Dubai’s desert sunset in a relaxed, lively setting.